I ran across an article on “Famous Last Words.” It wasn’t what I expected. They were all anonymous and pretty funny. Here’s a sample:
Cut the red one!
Dad, why the apple on my head?
He’s probably just hibernating.
Here, kitty, kitty, kitty…
Hey, it looks sturdy enough to me.
Now you know how I spend my free time! But, it does get me thinking if I could choose “what would my last words be?”
For me, this speaks to the area of significance and purpose. There were those who are remembered for their inspirational last words. For example, Nathan Hale said, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.” Dwight D. Eisenhower said “I’ve always loved my wife and my children and my grandchildren. I’ve always loved my country. I want to go. God, take me.” Isaac Asimov expressed his love and devotion to his wife by saying, “I love you, Janet.”
Now the big question, “What would you want to say at that moment?” My guess is that it would have something to do with family, legacy, hope, or making a difference. There were seven words or statements that Jesus made on the cross. Each is filled with depth and meaning. But let me call your attention to Luke 23:34 where Jesus cries out, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” In his most difficult hour, his thoughts were not about Himself, but about others.
Live your life now in such a way that when the time comes, your life will declare hope and inspiration to generations to come!